Evidence supporting the use of: European peony
For the health condition: PMS Type A

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Paeonia lactiflora, commonly known as the European peony (though more accurately the "Chinese peony" in herbal medicine), has a long-standing use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for gynecological conditions, including menstrual irregularities and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). In TCM, formulas containing peony root—such as Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang (Peony and Licorice Decoction)—are prescribed to "nourish the blood" and "soothe the liver," which are believed to address symptoms similar to PMS Type A (characterized by anxiety, irritability, and mood swings). Historical texts and centuries of clinical use support this traditional application.

However, scientific validation for peony’s effectiveness in treating PMS, especially PMS Type A, is limited. Some studies have investigated peony in combination with other herbs (e.g., Paeonia lactiflora with Glycyrrhiza uralensis), indicating potential benefits for menstrual and mood-related symptoms, but these are preliminary and often lack rigorous controls or focus on PMS specifically. The putative mechanisms may involve modulation of neurotransmitters or hormonal balance, but these remain hypothetical. Consequently, use of European/Chinese peony for PMS Type A is justified primarily by tradition rather than robust scientific evidence, meriting a moderate evidence rating.

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